So I’ve read through many forums and such and have not been able to find a clear answer to this question: are the “quick takes” on the USC applications supposed to be serious or funny? I have genuine answers for both, so I just want to see what other people think/what other people have done in the past. Thanks!
USC Admissions actually addresses this and many other questions like such via video Q&A sessions online. You may want to take a look at some of their Admission Hangout videos at:
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=usc+admissions
As I recall, they seemed to imply that being funny or lighthearted is fine. They are just looking to get a better sense of your personality.
Good Luck…
They can be a mix of both. Some will say their dream job is to be a neuro surgeon while others will put an ice cream taste tester. The worst thing you can do is put what you think they want. Be you, that is what they are trying to figure out most - who you are. Whether you do that in all seriousness or with a touch of fun is up to you. Each of the schools and admissions puts out live chats and new videos in the next few months, watch for those on the website and admissions home page, or you will get emails if you signed up to receive info. There are trends in admissions each year that they bring up (good and not so good) and it is helpful to hear them before/when applying. It gives you a sense of what they are looking for this cycle.
I was serious for some and absolutely silly for others. I recall putting “analytical linguist at Google” and “future Dornsife alum”. There was one about favorite food when I applied, so I put “tamales because the possibilities are endless”. I think it’s nice to show if you can be silly yet serious. Although, in my case, I think I was verging on too silly/cliché.